VIEUX LYON, THE CITIES OLD DISTRICT

You hear that? , Really, tell me you hear that. The echoes of footsteps running through the traboule’s.  Merchants of silk, bargaining their prices as unsuspected travelers gasp in disbelief of what these simple passage ways provide throughout history.

We talk about France and of course Paris, Marseille and the beautiful coast line of the south, the epic battles that took place for Strasbourg and the historic importance of Britany. Surely these are what we come here for, no? Then we have Lyon, once a refugee camp for ex Roman soldiers expelled from neighboring Vienne, now a diverse European Hub for commerce, gastronomy and culture. But, why go visit this small metropolis?

Vieux Lyon, the cities old district. What a marvelous place to get lost. The cobblestone streets along with numerous restaurants, cafes, bars and bakeries make it an inspiring place to meet a significant other.  Why not venture through each street of this astonishing place lost in time. Originally old Gauls center of religion and silk trades the center now attracts over 2 million visitors each year. Apart from the delicious cuisines that are on offer, hidden passage ways seem to create quite a stir amongst tourists of all walks of life.  Le traboules, these passage ways that are scattered throughout the old town have such an historical importance to them.  The idea came during the 14/15^th century with the cities silk trade on a rise, architects came up with the clever idea of building these passages to divert foot traffic from the already busy streets.  This also helped residents further in the back buildings gain access to water and was also a nuisance for Nazi soldiers during French occupation in WWII.  

Cathedral Saint Jean, dating back to medieval era, this beautiful tribute to gothic architecture truly is one for the photo album. Attached to the side is an old Romanesque building that now hosts the church’s treasures. The cathedral is still the seat of the Archbishop of the region with the name of ‘Gaul’ still attached due to historical importance .During the cities ‘Fete de Lumiere’ you can watch the building come to life with breath taking light shows, perfect for all to attend. With numerous Cafes scattered outside the cathedral and the marvelous Norte Dame de Fourviere overlooking the skyline, it is a must for any tourist or new inhabitant to experience. 

Saint George, home of the infamous Lyonnais mascot, Guignol. His creator Laurent Mourguet derived from a wealthy silk indulged family, through during the French revolution when times got though his creativeness aspired and shows were set up throughout the district. Now a household name, his theatre and legacy live on with shows daily and an abundance of beautiful buildings to surround. The area currently is home to many Irish bars and is now infamously known as the Irish district of Lyon due the numerous Irish residents it hosts.  

Bouchon Lyonnais restaurants, a sin not to mention these delicious eateries.  Dating back as far as the 16^th century, originally hosted the cities silk merchants for meals. Nowadays an abundance of them are scattered throughout the Old Town with only a handful certified as been authentic. The new cuisine style is the inspiration to these humble but mouthwatering dishes. With succulent Saucissons or a filling Quenelles this is truly bliss for any food lovers that stop by this beautiful city.

Only scratching the surface of this hearty city, there is of course much more to discover and unearth here. The cities new slogan “Addicted to Lyon” truly captures the cities effect on people.

 Always remember #wewereder.....